Finding the perfect pair of glasses is a lot like finding the perfect fitting bra. In both instances, the end result should be extremely comfortable, perform its job well and, of course, make you look good. But we all know just how frustrating it can be to actually achieve success. Well, stress no more! After years of fitting women at our Vancouver optical store, we’ve really gotten it down and we’ve decided to dish on some of our secrets to finding the perfect pair of women’s glasses. Just remember that every face and look is different and eyewear style is informed by individual aesthetic tastes and lifestyle, so in the end, go with what you feel confident in, but these guidelines will simplify the process.

Face Shape

Though it’s pretty rare that anyone fits one exact standard there are the four basic face shapes and most likely yours is closer to one rather than others. In a previous post, we covered the topic of glasses for face types pretty comprehensively. Take advantage of your assets and work with your angles. It breaks down like this:

Round Faces: Women with round faces (think Mila Kunis) tend to have soft features and obviously a circular shape. The length and width of the face are about even and the chin is round. When looking for glasses for women with round faces we tend to suggest structured square or rectangular frames to give the illusion of angles or even ones with slightly upswept corners, which narrow the face.

Square Faces: Women with square faces, like Angelina Jolie, typically have angular, strong features. The forehead, jaw and cheekbones are about the same width and the jaw is pretty well defined. Oval or round frames can soften your features. Try on pairs that are wider than your cheekbones for balance and don’t shy away from cat eye frames.

Oval Faces: Women with oval faces – Beyoncé is the perfect example – have balanced features. The hairline is a little wider than the chin and the face’s length is about one and a half times the width. Finding glasses for women with oval faces is easier than other shapes, because nearly anything can look flattering. Upswept, rectangle and square shapes can help keep the balance, while oversized frames will flatter your features.

Heart-Shaped Faces: Women with heart-shaped faces, like Reese Witherspoon, have cheeks that are a bit wider than their forehead, which is a lot wider than their jawline. The chin may be pointed. Try wayfarer, oval or round shapes.

When it comes to determining your face shape, the most important thing is just deciding whether your face is more angular or curved and going with frames in a contrasting shape.

Skin Tone

You can’t really go wrong with tortoise or black frames, but choosing a frame color that really pops against your skin can help you make a statement. We’re not talking skin color, but instead whether you have cool or warm undertones and choosing colors that work best with each. If your skin possesses blue or pink tones and the veins on the inside of your wrist appear more blue in color, you’re likely cool and if you spot peach or yellow tones and your veins look more greenish, you’re likely warm.

Measurements

Just like that bra we discussed, the right pair of glasses will also have the right measurements for you. However, keep in mind that eyeglass frame measurements aren’t like your shoe size. It’s more of a clue that a particular frame will work for you. Since things like plastic bridges come in a variety of styles, they aren’t all constructed the same way regardless of sizes. If you previously wore a plastic Etnia frame then you’ll most likely be comfortable in another plastic Etnia frame with the same bridge size. All eyeglass frame measurements have three numbers in a format like 47-20-140. The first number is the effective diameter (ED) of the lens, the second number is the bridge width (for an in-depth look at bridge fit, see our post) and the third number is temple length.

In the end, your eyes should be in line with the optical center of the lens. In addition, frames should sit comfortably on the bridge. If the bridge is too small, your glasses will sit really high on the face and they’ll pinch you. If the bridge is too big, the frames will slide down. If your nose is narrow and you have close set eyes, aim for a measurement between 14mm and 18mm. If your nose is wider and your eyes are set further apart go for 18mm or higher. Hint: Adjustable nose pads are a great feature for those with really narrow bridges!

You’ll also want to factor in your bridge location when choosing frames (who knew that little bridge would be so important?). If the bridge of your nose is above your pupils that means you have a high bridge and will want to look for frames with a bridge that is either in line with or close to your browline. If you have a low bridge that sits at or below your pupils, choose frames with a curved browline or a bridge that hits below your browline.

There are no set rules for finding the perfect pair of glasses for you. Try out different options, preferably in-person, as it’s extremely difficult to gauge how something will look when shopping online, and go with what you feel best in. Stop by the Spectacle Shoppe in Vancouver for expert help. We have a large variety of glasses and experience fitting frames on thousands of women, which gives us a good idea of what will look stunning on you.

Morgan Nahanee

Author

Morgan is The Spectacle Shoppe’s Lead Technician and Customer Relations Specialist as well as a Principle of Spectacle Shoppe. She is a licensed contact lens fitter and dispensing optician and has been working for The Spectacle Shoppe since 2006. She graduated from Douglas College’s two year Dispensing Optician and Contact Lens Fitting Program in 2008. From contact lens fitting to eyeglass repairs and adjustments Morgan is eager to help you with any optical needs. Connect with Morgan Nahanee on Google+